14 Common Types of Dog Skin Diseases (With Pictures)

Is your dog constantly scratching, licking, or showing signs of skin discomfort? Skin issues can be more than just a nuisance—they can affect your pup's overall well-being. Like humans, dogs suffer from innumerable skin problems, which can disturb their comfort, health, or appearance.

A pet parent needs to be cautious of the types of skin disorders dogs can be affected by and what they can do in each case.

Dive into our comprehensive guide on 14 common types of dog skin diseases (with pictures) to identify symptoms, understand causes, and explore effective treatments.  From yeast infections to crusty skin conditions, we've got you covered with detailed images and at-home care tips. Plus, discover how pet-friendly automatic feeders and water dispensers can help maintain a consistent routine, supporting your dog's skin health even on your busiest days.

1. Acral lick dermatitis

Acral lick dermatitis mainly manifests as a lick granuloma. It is a self-inflicted skin problem through repeated licking, which often presents at the front legs, more so at the joints, causing a thickened, inflamed, and sometimes ulcerated skin patch.

Generally, it denotes boredom, anxiety, or underlying pain such as arthritis.

It then fits in the category of crusty dog skin conditions because, with time, the affected area becomes dry, raised, and crusted.

The particular action consists of anti-inflammatory creams and an Elizabeth collar so that licking, increased activity, and pulling are considered for physical and mental welfare.

2. Acute Moist Dermatitis (Hot Spots)

Accordingly, it is a major factor only in warm and humid conditions and for heavy-coated dogs, for the increased possibility of redness, moisture, and inflammation due to prolonged licking, scratching, or biting. In such cases, red spots occur due to allergies, flea bites, or skin infections.

The areas may ooze and scab, which gives dogs skin rash photos. Treatment consists of clipping the hair around the area, cleaning the area with antiseptic solutions, and topical antibiotics or steroids.

3. Canine atopy or atopic dermatitis

Canine atopy or atopic dermatitis is a chronic allergic disease of the skin due to, depending on the individual, environmental allergens like pollen, dust, and mold. Dogs affected by this condition will generally scratch their skin, have recurrent redness, ear infections, and lick and chew their forepaws continually, as shown in the dog skin disease picture.

Skin in an advanced state of the disease becomes very thickened and darkened. It is most likely to be described within the domain of canine dermatoses, concerning the severe redness and inflammation it produces.

Treatments available include antihistamines, corticosteroids, medicated shampoos, and desensitization for allergies.

4. Ear Infections

Ear infections may occur in dogs because of yeast dog skin problems. It infects many dog bacteria, and the causative agent is a yeast. Floppy-eared breeds are most prone to ear infections, symptoms of which include scratching of the ears, shaking the head, and redness, sometimes accompanied by a foul odor.

Severe complications develop if ear infections remain untreated. You can find allergic skin conditions with itchy rashes that show up in pictures of dog skin rashes.

The treatment involves cleaning and putting prescription ear drops and ointments to minimize inflammation and infection.

5. A flea infestation

Fleas are among the most common culprits behind the skin problems in dogs. These tiny pests greatly vex those who suffer from flea allergy.

You may observe that your dog is scratching for an extended period, which can cause hair loss and ulceration, with crusty patches appearing throughout his back, thighs, and belly before long.

The incessant scratching may break the skin and form an open sore in severe cases. The good thing is that flea infestation is treatable.

Using topical/oral flea medication, regular grooming, and maintaining a clean area for the dog, for example, washing the bedding and vacuuming the floor, can help eradicate fleas and prevent reinfestation.

6. Folliculitis

Bacterial action is chiefly responsible for the infection of hair follicles. It is generally secondary to other skin disorders due to allergy or trauma. Pustules, red bumps, and scabs occur on the belly or thighs.  

We identify folliculitis in dog skin disease images that usually depict small pus-filled bumps or inflamed hair follicles.

Treatment of the underlying cause of the infection and the application of antibacterial shampoos and oral or local antibiotics would be the treatment for this condition.

7. Food Allergies

Food allergies usually become clear in dogs as skin conditions rather than digestive problems.

Typical signs include itchy skin, nagging ear infections, and cutaneous lesions affecting the feet, face, and ears. Beef, dairy, chicken, and seeds are generally culprits. Then again, these symptoms might show similar behavior with other allergic skin manifestations; hence, elimination diets can help.

Treatment includes substituting a hypoallergenic or limited ingredient diet with veterinary concern.

8. Immune-Mediated Skin Diseases

Certain breeds suffer from autoimmune diseases. The manifestations of these diseases are lesions, sores, scabs, and crusty skin conditions in the dog. They are usually located on the nose, eyes as well and paw pads.

The diagnosis involves a skin biopsy. These immunosuppressive drugs need monitoring by the veterinarian for long-term administration.

9. Pyoderma

When a skin bacterium infects, it results in a scab, a pus-filled sore, or baldness. It usually follows as secondary to allergy, parasites, or hormonal disorders.

Look into the pictures of dog skin diseases that fit pyoderma. Medicated shampoo and antibiotics are the cure.

10. Ringworm (Dermatophytosis)

Ringworm is a fungal disease and isn't an infestation, as one might believe. It causes round bald patches in the hair or on the skin.

Many pictures showing dog skin diseases will identify the bald patches, which are easily recognizable and are more common in young puppies and dogs with low immunity.

The treatment consists of disinfecting antifungal creams and orally administered medication.  

11. Seborrhea

Seborrhea flakes the skin, is greasy, dry, and may smell terrible. It is often passed down in families, but can also happen from allergies or infections.

Seborrhea is one of the types of dog skin disease with pictures that has grains or oil covering large body areas.

You can treat it with medicated shampoos, omega-3s, and whatever is causing the problem.

12. Neoplasms or Cancer of the Skin

Although benign in most cases, they are rarely known to be malignant. A lipoma or warts are examples of skin lesions that may be melanomas.

They grow anywhere on the body and differ in shape, size, color, and texture. Some of them are harmless and may not cause any trouble, while others may require surgery or biopsy for removal.

Any growth is suspected of cancer until proven otherwise by your veterinarian. An example of skin carcinoma can aid dog owners in recognizing the growth of tumors.

13. Yeast Infections

Moist regions like paws, ears, and skin folds display yeast-related dog skin issues. Malassezia yeast leads to greasy, red, itchy skin patches, which emit a distinct smell.

Dogs suffering from this condition demonstrate constant licking or chewing of their paws. Photos of yeast dog skin problems reveal oily fur combined with redness between toes or under legs.

Candida treatments include direct medical regimens. The treatment regimen involves antifungal shampoos combined with ear drops and dietary changes.

14. Contact Dermatitis

Contact Dermatitis develops when a dog touches skin irritants such as detergents or certain plant materials. The symptoms resemble the images of other dog skin rashes. It gives a similar look to other canine skin rash pictures.

The treatment requires eliminating the irritant substance and cleaning the affected skin, followed by the application of antihistamines or topical corticosteroids.

How to Treat Dog Skin Disease at Home

Some dog skin diseases can be managed right at home. Regular baths with medicated or hypoallergenic shampoos, adding omega-3s to your dog’s diet, and using vet-approved moisturizers like coconut oil can go a long way in soothing irritated skin. Clean surroundings and consistent grooming also help prevent flare-ups.

But did you know your dog’s skin health also depends on their daily routine?

That’s where WOpet’s ultra-smart feeders and water fountains come in. With just one tap, you can automate your dog’s meals and hydration, making it easier to support balanced nutrition and regular bathroom habits, which are key for healthy skin.

Final Thoughts

Dog skin issues can range from mild irritations to chronic conditions—and recognizing the signs early is crucial. Whether it’s yeast infections, hot spots, or crusty dog skin conditions, understanding the types of dog skin diseases with the help of detailed guides and dog skin rash photos can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort and well-being.

Some common causes include:

● Flea bites and food allergies

● Environmental triggers like mold, pollen, or chemicals

● Bacterial or fungal infections (like yeast dog skin problems)

● Excessive licking or scratching due to stress or boredom

Treatment options vary depending on the cause, but mild to moderate issues can often be managed with:

● Medicated or hypoallergenic shampoos

● Coconut oil or vet-approved moisturizers

● Omega-3 supplements to reduce inflammation

● Regular grooming and skin checks

● An improved diet or elimination of allergens

If you're wondering how to treat dog skin disease at home, start by establishing a consistent care routine. However, always consult your veterinarian for any signs of infection, hair loss, persistent scratching, or discharge—these can be symptoms of deeper underlying problems.

And here’s something many dog owners overlook: daily feeding routines and hydration also play a role in maintaining healthy skin. Nutrient-rich meals, served on time, help support the immune system and reduce inflammatory reactions.

Designed for busy pet parents, WOpet’s best automatic dog feeder ensures your dog receives meals on time—even when you're away. Combined with an automatic water dispenser, it helps maintain proper hydration, which is essential for skin elasticity, cell repair, and overall health.

At WOpet, we know how much your dog means to you—and how busy life can get. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping pet parents create healthier, happier routines with smart, reliable products built on honest values and genuine care. Check out our collection of interactive pet toys and everyday pet accessories that help reduce boredom, minimize stress-related scratching, and keep tails wagging.

F.A.Q.

Q1: What's the most common skin condition in dogs?

One often thinks about hot spots, allergies, mange, and yeast infections. Specimen identification would be through by visiting a vet.

Q2: How can I treat my dog's skin disease at home?

You can treat it with medicated shampoos, regular skin washing, and adequate feeding. Read our How to Treat Dog Skin Disease at Home section to get more information.

Q3: Can yeast infections infect humans?

The usual yeast infections are not zoonotic; good hygiene always helps, and it is best to consult your veterinarian.

Q4: Under what circumstances should I bring my dog to a vet for skin problems?

Visit the vet immediately if the dog keeps peeing all the time. Other symptoms include sores and hair loss.